CORVALLIS — Put together all the hot boards and potential candidate lists you want: Robb Akey wants the Oregon State head coaching job.

The Beavers’ interim boss — who took over this week after Trent Bray was fired following an 0-7 start — is hoping OSU’s final five games will serve as proof of concept, according to his assistants.

“We’re trying to win,” newly minted co-defensive coordinator Ilaisa Tuiaki said Wednesday. “Coach Akey wants to be able to take over. And we all know how this thing is. There’s already a search firm rolling right now. So, it’s like, if we can get on a roll, does he have a legitimate chance to get it?”

Everybody has something to prove, including players. A motivational presence with a loud, gravelly voice, Akey is well-liked in the OSU locker room.

“He’

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